Understanding our inner critics: The power of insight & compassion

The Science and Soul of Living Well

In this episode, I emphasize how essential it is to understand your relationship to self-criticism & the ways in which it shows up in your life. From this foundation of insight, you can then enhance your ability to respond to self-criticism more effectively, particularly with a compassionate stance, so that it becomes a less dominant force. I begin by offering examples of the multitude of influences that can cultivate & perpetuate self-criticism & then guide you through a self-assessment exercise that you can engage with as either a guided meditation or written inquiry to help deepen your understanding of the role of self-criticism in your life. I then introduce self-compassion as a useful antidote to self-criticism by clarifying what it means on a practical level to cultivate self-compassion in your life. I also share important research that both supports the benefits of self-compassion & debunks common myths of self-compassion. I end with a guided self-compassion practice that targets self-criticism & can help soften its impact in difficult moments. This guided practice is intended to be a tool that you can readily integrate into your life & implement when you notice self-criticism arise, even if you only have a few moments.

To connect more with Dr. Foynes:

1. Check out the free 4-part video series on building resilience: https://melissafoynes.com/free-series

2. 1:1 Coaching Program: https://melissafoynes.com/1-1-program

3. Follow @drfoynes on Instagram.

References & Additional Resources

1. Germer, C. K. (2009). The mindful path to self-compassion: Freeing yourself from destructive thoughts and emotions.New York: Guilford Press.

2. Neff, K.. (2015). Self-compassion: The proven power of being kind to yourself. New York, NY: William Morrow.

3. Salzberg, S. (2005). The force of kindness: change your life with love and compassion. Boulder, CO: Sounds True.

4. Dr. Kristin Neff's website: https://self-compassion.org

Please note that the information provided in this episode does not constitute professional advice or therapy, mental health services, or health care services, & is not intended to serve as a substitute for professional advice or services. If you are struggling with a mental health crisis or need immediate assistance, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.